The law follows nationwide attempts by conservative lawmakers and activists to limit publicly available books centered on LGBTQ issues or people of color.

Summary

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the Freedom to Read Act, prohibiting book bans in public schools and libraries and protecting librarians who comply with state law.

The law responds to a national rise in book challenges, often targeting works by or about LGBTQ individuals and people of color.

Reports show book removals tripled during the 2023-24 school year.

New Jersey joins Illinois and Minnesota in enacting such legislation, with implementation set to begin within a year to safeguard free access to diverse literature and encourage critical thinking in students.